Volador longboards have quickly gained attention for their eye-catching designs and budget-friendly prices. With clean lines and exposed maple decks, they offer a refreshing aesthetic that stands out in the market. But are Volador longboards just visually appealing, or do they deliver in terms of performance and quality? This review breaks down their key models and explores the brand’s background to help you decide if a Volador longboard is right for you.
Volador Longboards: A Detailed Look
Volador Dancer Longboard
Volador 46inch dance longboard The Volador Dancer is a large board, measuring 46 inches in length and 10 inches in width, making it exceptionally stable and comfortable for riders. While primarily designed for dancing, it can also handle cruising and carving. However, the board’s wide stance and long wheelbase can make it less maneuverable, which might not be ideal for those seeking nimble turns. Despite this, the stability it provides is a major plus for beginners or riders who prioritize a solid platform.
The 70mm wheels are well-suited for cruising, but their weight may affect dancing performance, particularly when performing tricks that require lifting the board. Although not ideal for beginners learning to dance, experienced riders will find them usable. A key area for potential improvement is the trucks. As a budget-friendly brand, Volador had to make compromises, and the trucks are one of those areas. While functional, they may not provide the same level of control as higher-end trucks. Consider upgrading them later for improved performance.
Volador 40-inch Maple Cruiser
Volador 40inch cruiser The Volador 40-inch Maple Cruiser is built for smooth cruising. Its drop-through mounting lowers the board’s center of gravity and the turning center of the trucks, enhancing stability. This also makes the board slightly less responsive to rider input, which is great for beginners or those who prefer a more stable ride.
The standout feature of this board is its 70mm, 80a wheels, which feature a large core to keep them lightweight for better acceleration and agility. However, like the dancer, this model’s trucks and bearings are areas where Volador cut costs. Upgrading these components with high-quality aftermarket options can significantly improve the board’s performance and overall riding experience.
Volador Freeride Complete
Volador freeride longboard With its classic pintail shape, the Volador Freeride Complete is 42 inches long and includes a flexible deck. Unlike the previous models, this board features a shorter wheelbase and kicktails, making it easier to perform kick turns and navigate tighter curves. The top-mount design maximizes maneuverability, providing the best turning response from the trucks. However, this can also make the board slightly unstable for beginners, who might want to tighten the trucks for more stability.
Like other Volador models, the main drawbacks are the trucks and bearings. Upgrading them or their components, like pivots and bushings, can result in a smoother and more enjoyable riding experience. This board is a good option for experienced riders seeking a more responsive board, but beginners should approach with caution.
The Story Behind the Volador Brand
Volador’s online presence is somewhat mysterious, with limited information available. However, it’s been discovered that they are owned by Orca Steel Enterprise, a Hong Kong-based company specializing in manufacturing outdoor sports products and skateboarding gear. They emphasize producing high-quality products tailored to their customers’ needs.
While they may not be dedicated longboarders, Orca Steel has produced boards that have satisfied riders worldwide. Volador offers a good balance of performance and value, making them a solid option for those new to longboarding. However, experienced riders seeking top-tier quality and precision should explore more dedicated longboard brands.
Are Volador Parts Cheap?
As a budget-focused brand, Volador makes some compromises on component quality. Their trucks are generally decent, but the bushings and pivots are made from lower-quality Chinese polyurethane. Beginners might not notice a major difference, but seasoned riders will appreciate the improved performance of higher-quality aftermarket components. Similarly, the bearings are an area where Volador cut costs, using cheaper parts that may affect speed and smoothness. Upgrading them will provide a more enjoyable and efficient ride.
The decks and wheels, however, are of reasonably good quality. While stress fractures are possible, especially in mass-produced decks, they don’t usually affect the board’s overall performance. These minor cosmetic issues are fairly common, even on higher-priced boards, and shouldn’t deter potential buyers.
Volador Deck Quality
Volador decks are typically made from 8-ply cold-pressed hard maple. This material offers a good balance of strength, flexibility, and weight, making it suitable for longboard decks. The elastic deformation of maple allows it to withstand impacts and weight without easily breaking. However, given that Volador is a mass producer, the process can result in a small number of decks delaminating over time due to less pressure during the production process.
In general, you get a decent deck for the price, which constitutes a significant portion of the cost of their complete longboards.
The Volador Aesthetic
Volador stands out from other budget brands with its visually appealing graphics. These longboards aren’t just functional; they can also be displayed as pieces of art. When purchasing a longboard, aesthetics are essential, and Volador delivers boards that you can ride and show off with pride.
Are Volador Longboards Good for Beginners?
Volador longboards are a reliable choice for beginners looking for affordable and functional boards. While some components may not be top-tier, they provide a good entry point into the world of longboarding. Upgrading specific parts down the line can further enhance the riding experience, but the stock setups are capable enough to get beginners started.
In conclusion, Volador offers a solid combination of style and value, making them a brand worth considering for those new to longboarding.
